ICD and S-ICD FAQs

Get answers to frequently asked questions about living with a Boston Scientific ICD or S-ICD below. If you don’t see the answer to your question, feel free to give us a call at (866) 484-3268.

When will I get my permanent Medical Device ID card?

Your permanent Medical Device Identification (ID) card will be mailed to you a few weeks after your implant. This wallet-sized card helps identify you as a patient with an implanted Boston Scientific medical device. If you do not receive your permanent card within eight weeks, call 1-866-484-3268 to order a card.

What if I move or change doctors?

If your name or address changes, or if you get a new heart doctor, let us know so we can update our records.

Do you have information I can share with my family about my implanted heart rhythm device?

You can download and print information about your device to share with your family by selecting your Boston Scientific device model on the resources page. These info sheets include answers to commonly asked questions about ICDs and S-ICDs and a summary about your device—including a photograph and dimensions. You may also want to share your patient manual with them. If you would like to request a new manual, call Boston Scientific Patient Services at (866) 484-3268.

How does the EMBLEM S-ICD differ from transvenous ICDs?

With a transvenous ICD (TV-ICD) device, electrical wires are fed through your veins, into the heart, and across the heart valve. Once the wires are in place, they are attached to the heart wall. The subcutaneous placement of the EMBLEM S-ICD does not require electrical wires in the heart and is designed to reduce complications associated with the implantation of TV-ICD electrical wires. Learn More About S-ICDs at the link below.

Is a shock from an ICD or S-ICD painful?

With both transvenous and subcutaneous ICDs, people have reported a wide range of experiences as a result of receiving a shock, from a mild thump to a kick in the chest. While the shock may be painful, it is over in an instant. This means your device is monitoring and responding to dangerous heart rhythm irregularities.

What happens if someone is touching me when I receive an electric shock?

If you receive a shock while in contact with another individual, they may feel a harmless tingling sensation that lasts for an instant.

Will my ICD or S-ICD interfere with mobile phones and other electronic devices?

Being too close to electronic or strong electromagnetic devices may cause interference with your device, such as running motors and large magnets. Most medical equipment will not interfere with your ICD or S-ICD, but be sure to inform your health care professional that you have an implanted device. Learn more at the links below.

What information is stored in my device?

Your doctor can learn about changes to your heart condition from your activity level, heart events, and treatments from the information stored in your device.

Since your device is on 24 hours a day, it can provide a good picture of your heart rates and rhythms, your activity level, and how much help your heart needed to beat normally. If you receive therapy from your device, your doctor can see pictures (electrograms) about what happened.